Analyzing the Composition of Tears and Blood for Discovery of Novel Signatures of Aggressive Prostate Cancer

Analyzing the Composition of Tears and Blood for Discovery of Novel Signatures of Aggressive Prostate Cancer

The purpose of this research study is to compare profiles in the blood and tears of patients with and without prostate cancer with the goal of developing a method of separating men with aggressive and non-aggressive disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Male, 35-85 years old
2. Patients who present for the evaluation of an abnormal exam or test (elevated PSA, abnormal DRE, etc.)
3. Patients who present for the evaluation of a palpable nodule or induration on prostate exam
4. Patients who meet the requirements of Group 1, 2, or 3 of the protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patient < 35 or > 85 years of age
2. Concurrent eye infection or trauma, including active conjunctivitis
3. Abnormal production of tears (too much or too little)
4. Any other conditions the PI or staff feels will not fulfill the criteria for study entry or will place the subject in a harmful environment
5. Atypia on prostate biopsy report